Overview

The Victim Studies programme at Sam Houston State University provides a comprehensive multidisciplinary education designed to support individuals affected by crime. This pioneering degree integrates criminal justice, psychology, and social science to foster expertise in trauma-informed care and professional advocacy.

Students can tailor their education by choosing between two distinct degree paths. The Bachelor of Arts track incorporates a strong focus on liberal arts and requires additional hours in a foreign language, such as Spanish or American Sign Language. This path is ideal for those seeking to work in diverse communities where linguistic skills enhance service delivery.

Alternatively, the Bachelor of Science track emphasises social science research and methodology.

Why Victim Studies at Sam Houston State University?

This programme is recognised as the first of its kind in the United States, offering a unique curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application. The faculty consists of internationally renowned scholars and practitioners who bring real-world experience in victimology and policy development into the classroom.

The university provides flexible learning options, allowing students to complete their studies through face-to-face instruction in Huntsville or via a fully online platform. This flexibility ensures that aspiring advocates can balance their education with other commitments while accessing high-quality resources and expert mentorship.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 23520 per year
National fee: USD 23520 per year
Local fee: USD 11370 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Victimology
Crisis Intervention
Trauma Response
Victim Service Delivery
Problem Analysis
Social Science
Criminal Justice
Advocacy

Careers with Victim Studies

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of professional roles within the justice system and social services. Many find employment as victim advocates, helping individuals navigate the complexities of legal proceedings and recovery. Others pursue careers in adult or child protective services, ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations.

The skills gained during the programme are also highly applicable to roles in non-profit organisations and community outreach centres. Graduates may work in public policy to influence legislation or join government agencies focused on domestic violence and crisis management. The degree provides a solid foundation for those entering law enforcement or social work.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Statistical Mthods in Practice

Psychological Statistics

Social Statistics

Intercultural Communication

Conflict, Negotiatn & Resolutn

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-05-29 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-28 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-27 00:00:00 , International

More details

SHSU strongly encourages international students outside the U.S. to apply at least 90 days before the beginning of the semester for which they are applying.

Language

English

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105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

Huntsville, United States

Disciplines

International Law Criminal Law Public Law View 102 other Bachelors in International Law in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Submit the ApplyTexas.org Application (International) and pay the nonrefundable application fee of $75 in U.S. currency via MasterCard, American Express, VISA, Discover Card, money order or check drawn on a U.S. bank.

Send official high school transcripts or college/university transcripts if applicable.

If transcripts are from a school outside of the U.S. the document must be translated and evaluated by a NACES accredited service or SDR Educational Consultants

International college transcript evaluations must include a course by course evaluation from an accredited evaluation company

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

23520 USD / year

≈ 23520 USD / year
Out-of-State

23520 USD / year

≈ 23520 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11370 USD / year

≈ 11370 USD / year

Living costs

Huntsville

United States

964 - 1786 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Victim Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Huntsville

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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